Backup Documents 04/26/2011 Item # 4E
WHEREAS,
WHEREAS,
WHEREAS,
WHEREAS,
WHEREAS,
WHEREAS,
WHEREAS,
WHEREAS,
PROCLAMA TION
4E
the State of Florida ranks number one in the country in child drowning incidents; and,
between 2005 and 2009, drowning was the leading external cause of death for chl1dren 1
- 4 years of age in Collier County; and,
there were up to 70 water-related incidents in infants and children seen at the NCH
Healthcare Emergency Departments in 2010. Of these, 19 chIldren required admission to
the NCH Pediatric Intensive Care or Pediatric Step Down Unit with 6 of the 19 requiring
assistance with their breathing intubation and airway support; and,
the Safe '* Healthy Childrens Coalition of Collier County is committed to reversing these
disturbing trends,' and,
on April 5"', the Safe and Healthy Childrens Coalition launched the Water Safety
Prescription Campaign in Collier County. Collier Pediatricians will distribute 'Water Safety
Prescription' brochures containing valuable water safety information at yearly well visits
for children 1-4 years old; and,
on April 27'" from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, the Coalition is hosting their first annual
April Pools /)Qy, geared towards teaching 4-5 year olds from local day cares various
aspects of water safety. April Pools Day activities will include 10 water safety stations
on different topics such as home safety tips, perSf)nal flotation devices, swim basics for
children, and water safety information to show children what to do if there is a drowning
situation,' and,
over 30 government and non-profit agencies within Collier County have combined efforts
to create programs to improve health outcomes and prevent childhood injury; and,
drowning prevention is the first step in developing a healthy relationship with the water, a
relationship that can combat physical inactivity and promote lifelong fitness.
NOW THEREFORE, be it proclaimed by the Boord of County Commissioners of Collier County, Florida,
that April, 2011 be designated os
DROWNING PREVENTION MONTH
DONE AND ORDERED THIS 26th Day of April, 2011.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA